In the early 1980's, ad hoc groups of Brevard community leaders realized that for the county to reach its fullest potential, it was necessary to develop the region's most important resource - its people.  Working under the umbrella of the Chambers of Commerce through a variety of collaborations, the founders' vision was to develop a program to foster future volunteer leadership throughout Brevard. Since then, LEAD Brevard (formerly known as Leadership Brevard, Inc.) has evolved into an independent 501(c)(3) educational organization.

LEAD Brevard, Inc. is governed by a Board of Directors which is created through election by the Alumni membership.  Program graduates may become active Leadership Brevard Alumni and participate on committees.

Since it started in 1985, Leadership Brevard has graduated over 1,000 participants and a solid Alumni base has been established.  Of its graduates, 75% still reside in Brevard and many are active Leadership Brevard Alumni.

On June 1st, 2006 the organization became LEAD Brevard.  The LEAD acronym: Lead. Engage. Achieve. Develop.  This new name better defines the organization's goals; to provide leadership development and training for our community through existing programs, like Leadership Brevard, and through the LEAD Institute which provides additional training and development opportunities.